Cisco Guevara founded Los Rios River Runners in 1978 to enable locals and visitors to experience the beauty and majesty of the Rio Grande & the Rio Chama. He has been a pioneer in recreational rafting in northern New Mexico since 1972.
No rafting company in New Mexico has more experience whitewater rafting in the Santa Fe and Taos area than Los Rios River Runners. The guides are fun-loving individuals, trained far beyond federal requirements in river safety, first aid and CPR. The entire staff is dedicated to providing guests with a fun, memorable experience.
Rafting Options
Though the Bureau of Land Management limits rafting access to preserve the wilderness areas, Los Rios has access to more stretches of river than any other company and they have a variety of adventures to choose from. They offer half day, full day and multi-day experiences.
Half Day Adventures
The most popular adventure is the Racecourse. The route is wet and wild in high water, fun and splashy in late season. However, if you prefer a more relaxing adventure, the Orilla Verde is a mellow half day trip ideal for small children and seniors. Placid waters glide past towering bluffs and lush green meadows. There are several small rapids. The Lower Gorge combines the Orilla Verde and the Racecourse. Seniors and small children can stop at lunch. Thrill seekers can head towards the whitewater.
The Native Cultures Feast & Float and the Sunset Tour are more leisurely, with an emphasis on soaking up the beauty of the canyon, and absorbing the knowledge of Taos Pueblo elders.
Full Day & Overnight Adventures
The Taos Box is the ultimate adventure. It is 16 miles of roaring whitewater, considered one of the top whitewater runs in the world. The Taos Box is a one-day adventure or part of a two or three day overnight. Experience is not required, but it helps to have a robust sense of adventure.
The Middle Box is a serene float through pristine, remote wilderness. This stretch of river features class two rapids and a class three run.
The Chama Canyon is a full day, 2-day or 3-day adventure. The full day Chama tour begins downstream of the Christ of the Desert Monastery. The rapids are a roiling, class three. The two day float has a few rapids, but it is mostly peaceful river, with occasional ripples of excitement.
Los Rios River Runners
P.O. Box 2734
Taos, NM 87571
(575) 776-8854
Email: office@losriosriverrunners.com
Prices vary from $34 to $495.
If you prefer to embark on your own adventure and need gear…they rent equipment.
